Backpacking into North Cascades National Park (US-0055)
Date: September 6-8, 2024
Overview:
Access via the Hannegan Trailhead: On a recent backpacking trip deep into North Cascades National Park, I had the opportunity to activate two summits for Summits on the Air (SOTA) and the North Cascades National Park (POTA US-0055). This journey marked the first Silesia Ridge (W7W/WH-063) and Copper Mountain (W7W/WH-071) activations. With incredible alpine scenery, challenging ridgelines, and exposed summits, this trip was a technical and adventurous achievement.
Trailhead and Approach:
The trip began with a hike deep into North Cascades National Park. Carrying all my gear for a multi-day trek, I set out from the trailhead toward the remote and rugged terrain surrounding Silesia Ridge and Copper Mountain. Both summits offered stunning views and distinct challenges, with the ridge walks offering different experiences. Permits can be tough to come by, and this year was no exception. Since the park service reserves a small percentage of the permits for walk-ups, we secured the permit two days prior at the Ranger Station just outside of Glacier, WA.
Weather and Views:
The weather during the activation was hazy and hot, which was not ideal for long-distance hiking and SOTA operations. The Easy Ridge fire was still burning, and the off-shore winds increased the presence of smoke along the trail. As one can imagine, the lack of tree coverage on both summits provided unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding North Cascades. But there are few places to throw a line and hoist an antenna. Knowing this in advance, I brought my trusty SOTABeams mast. Despite the lingering smoke, the granitic rock formations, and the wide-open alpine terrain, the landscapes were awe-inspiring, making the long journey worthwhile
Copper Mountain Activation:
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Ridge Walk: Our first night led down Silesia Ridge eventually setting camp at Egg Lake. The following morning, we set out for Copper Mountain, a more strenuous and technically demanding ridgeline. The route included a mild class III exposed section that required careful navigation. For those uncomfortable with the exposure, an alternative bushwhack route was available through a partially forested area, though it added scrapes and complexity.
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Summit Conditions: Copper Mountain's summit was similarly granitic and fully exposed, offering 360º views of the surrounding alpine wilderness. Shimmering peaks in the distance, including the jagged spires of the North Cascades, created an epic backdrop.
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Technical Activation: For this summit, I used my Elecraft KH1 and my newly built K6ARK End-Fed Half-Wave antenna. Although the rugged approach satisfied me, this activation was more challenging. After about 60 minutes of calling CQ on 20, 17, and 40 meters with only a single contact with NR1D in Connecticut, I switched to my HT paired with the RH 770 and managed three FM contacts, including one S2S.
Parks on the Air (POTA) Activation:
As both summits are located within North Cascades National Park, this trip allowed me to attempt to activate POTA entity US-0055. Combining high-elevation activations and the national park designation made this an especially rewarding and unique experience.
Conclusion:
The first-time activations of Silesia Ridge and Copper Mountain were both challenging and immensely rewarding. From the steep ridge walk along Silesia to the exposed class III scramble up Copper Mountain, each summit offered its own set of obstacles and stunning alpine beauty. The exposed, rocky summits provided an excellent environment for SOTA and POTA operations, with my portable setups performing admirably.
This journey into the heart of North Cascades National Park, combined with the adventure of activating new summits, was an unforgettable experience. The rugged terrain, wide-open views, and clear radio conditions reminded me of why I cherish these remote activations. I look forward to future expeditions, always seeking out new summits and opportunities to explore the synergy between amateur radio and the great outdoors.